Spinach and Phyllo Pie

Spinach and Phyllo Pie – the perfect delight for any meal

If you are looking for a delicious and healthy recipe that is suitable for both fasting and festive meals, spinach and Phyllo pie is the ideal choice. This pie is a combination of crispy textures and a rich filling of flavors that will captivate you from the first bite. Spinach, with its nutritional benefits, is the star of this recipe, providing essential vitamins and minerals for our bodies.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 package of phyllo dough (approx. 400g)
- 1 kg frozen spinach
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- A bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon (adjust according to preference)
- A cup of oil for brushing the sheets
- Sesame or poppy seeds for decoration

History of spinach pie:
Spinach pies have a rich tradition, being appreciated in many cultures for their versatility. They can be served hot or cold, for lunch, dinner, or as an appetizer. Phyllo sheets bring a touch of finesse and crunchiness, being easy to use in preparing various types of pies. Spinach is the ideal ingredient to add a note of freshness and nutrition, being rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.

Step by step in preparing spinach pie:

1. Thawing the phyllo sheets:
Take the phyllo sheets out of the freezer about 2 hours before you start preparing. It is essential that they are completely thawed to prevent tearing during assembly.

2. Preparing the spinach filling:
- In a large skillet, add a little oil and sauté the chopped onion over low heat for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the frozen spinach to the skillet, covering it with a lid. Let it cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is completely thawed (about 10 minutes).
- If necessary, you can add a tablespoon of water to prevent the spinach from sticking to the skillet.
- Once the spinach is soft, add salt and pepper to taste, then add the tomato paste and lemon juice. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as preferred.
- Finally, incorporate the chopped dill and mix well.

3. Assembling the pie:
- Prepare a baking tray by greasing the bottom with a little oil.
- Divide the phyllo sheets into 3 equal parts. With a pastry brush, brush each sheet with oil, layer by layer. Use about a third of the sheets for the first layer, carefully placing them in the tray.
- Add half of the spinach filling over the first layer of sheets.
- Continue with the second third of sheets, brushed with oil, followed by the remaining spinach filling.
- Close the pie with the last layer of sheets, brushed with oil. The last sheet should be brushed with a mixture of water and oil, and sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top for an attractive appearance.

4. Baking:
- Before placing the pie in the oven, cut it into portions (to avoid tearing the sheets after baking).
- Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 180°C for 40 minutes or until it is nicely browned and crispy on top.

5. Serving:
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. It is delicious alongside natural yogurt or a fresh salad, which will add a refreshing contrast.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with various herbs in the filling, such as basil or oregano, to provide an even more complex flavor.
- If you want a richer version, add feta or ricotta cheese to the filling.
- The pie can be frozen before baking for later preparation. Make sure to let it thaw completely before baking.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh spinach? Absolutely! Fresh spinach can be used, but make sure it is well washed and finely chopped. Sauté it first until it wilts.
- What can I do with leftover filling? You can use the leftover filling to stuff pancakes or add it to omelets.
- What is the caloric value of a serving? A serving of spinach pie can contain about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

This spinach and Phyllo pie is not only a simple and quick recipe, but also an excellent way to bring a touch of health to your table. With every bite, you will enjoy a perfect mix of flavors and textures. Enjoy your meal!